8 Best Microsoft Active Directory Alternatives (2024)

One of our primary concerns when utilizing a computer is that of privacy. A company’s importance cannot be overstated if you run one.

Microsoft Active Directory is the most commonly used method of restricting access to a server if a company does not want anybody else to be able to log in. To access your system, you must be a member of your team.

Database software from Microsoft is known as Active Directory. A Windows Server is required to use this utility as a domain controller. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best Microsoft Active Directory alternatives available on the market.

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Best Microsoft Active Directory Alternatives

Active Directory has been designed to read many changes and updates made to your computer. Many third-party solutions are now available to Microsoft Active Directory. However, they all perform the same function while providing different capabilities.

We’ll walk you through the best alternatives to Microsoft Active Directory in this post so you can make an informed decision.

1. Apache Directory Studio

Apache Directory is an open-source Java-based directory server that is LDAP V3 certified and provides a Java-based directory service.

Both the Open Group and Eclipse-based database utilities approved it in 2006. With the Kerberos server’s addition, Apache Directory can support a variety of additional codes.

A subproject of Apache Directory Studio has introduced a schema browser, DSML editor, LDAP editor/browser, and LDIF editor to the eclipse-based directory tool. Several plugins based on Eclipse may be easily upgraded to provide new features to the Apache Directory.

2. OpenLDAP

OpenLDAP is another piece of open-source software that we’ve included in our roundup. LDP-based service Microsoft Active Directory gives you access to all the LDAP data and the power to manage it in any way you choose. An LDAP-based directory service can replace Microsoft Active Directory.

Using OpenLDAP on a Windows PC is relatively straightforward, and you may download and install it. Take advantage of password management, LDIF import and export, scheme browsing, and more to keep your information private.

3. JumpCloud

IT administrators benefit from a single cloud directory platform with JumpCloud, which centralizes system administration. JumpCloud allows users to view their files on various systems, including Linux, Mac, and Windows.

JumpCloud makes server upkeep, availability, and management a breeze. It is also possible to try out the free account before purchasing a premium subscription.

4. Univention Corporation Server (UCS)

To run a business efficiently and conveniently, the Univention Corporation Server is a piece of server software.

With an integrated management system for the central and multi-platform control of servers, clients, desktops, users, services, and transitive machines operated in the UCS, this server operating system is adopted from Debian GNU/Linux.

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As a result of the Univention Corporation Server’s upgrading to Version 3.0, many firms have taken advantage of Microsoft Active Directory’s features for the administration of computers running Microsoft Windows (an open source software).

5. JXplorer

JXplorer is a cross-platform alternative to Microsoft Active Directory that you should consider. Windows, Linux, and many other operating systems can run JXplorer.

The LDAP and DSML interfaces in JXplorer allow you to search, read, and change any LDAP directory without using the command line. It’s Java-based, with a customizable HTML template. It’s pretty adaptable and configurable.

There are two options: free and paid versions for businesses. However, if the free you may always upgrade understanding does not meet your needs, you may need a free and open-source CIFS implementation for Unix; Samba aims to bring together the best of both worlds by seamlessly supporting both Unix and Windows. As a server application, it’s powerful and versatile.

To integrate Linux/Unix Servers and Desktops into Active Directory setups, Samba is a critical component. It might be a domain controller or a regular member of the domain.

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Allows network administrators to configure, set up, and choose the systems and equipment they want to use in various ways. Even though it’s running on Unix, it communicates with Windows clients as if it’s theirs.

Using this method, Windows users can use the print and file services provided by the Unix system without having to know or care about the advantages of the Unix system.

7. 398 Directory Server

In addition to Microsoft Active Directory, 398 Directory Server is a free Linux alternative. It’s easy to use, even for those with little prior computer experience.

They’ve combined this user interface with robust software to create something hundreds of people can work on simultaneously. The server is LDAPv3 compatible and utilizes TLS and SASL to provide secure authentication and transmission.

The program is free from the company’s website and may be installed on Linux computers.

8. Lepide Auditor for Active Directory

Lepide Auditor for Active Directory is a robust tool for monitoring Active Directory changes. It was created with the express purpose of providing a management tool for directory modifications.

In both cases, it can track down and remove unwanted alterations. So you can quickly see who changed what, when, and where without digging around. In addition, it allows system audits even if audit logs are unavailable.

Control panel for all audited systems, customizable control panel displays, and the consolidation of all audit logs into a single area are some of the other features that come with it. It also sends you an alert if it notices any significant modifications.

Conclusion

The most acceptable database solution available is Microsoft Active Directory. But these are the best if you’re looking for the best Microsoft Active Directory alternatives. They have a lot in common with Microsoft Active Directory.